CONSERVATIVE EXTENSION Meaning and
Definition
-
A conservative extension is a concept used in mathematics and logic to describe a relationship between two theories or systems, where one theory (the extension) includes all theorems and deductions of another theory (the base) while introducing new axioms or principles. In other words, the extension adds additional statements or rules which are not present in the base theory.
However, what distinguishes a conservative extension from a general extension is that the new axioms or principles in the extension theory do not contradict or alter any of the existing theorems or deductions in the base theory. This means that any statement proven or deduced within the base theory will also hold true in the extension theory.
The term "conservative" refers to the idea that the new axioms or principles introduced in the extension do not disrupt or change the existing mathematical or logical framework. It reflects the conservative nature of the extension, as it preserves all the valid deductions and conclusions of the base theory.
Conservative extensions have significant implications in mathematical and logical reasoning, allowing for the study and refinement of existing theories and the development of new branches of knowledge within a consistent framework. They provide a way to build upon established theories without compromising their existing body of knowledge.
Etymology of CONSERVATIVE EXTENSION
The word "conservative" in the context of "conservative extension" comes from the Latin word "conservare", meaning "to preserve" or "to keep". In philosophy and logic, a conservative extension refers to a theory or system that extends an existing theory or system while preserving as much of its content and as many of its truths as possible.
The term "extension" is used because the new theory extends the old one, incorporating additional concepts, axioms, or rules. However, it is referred to as "conservative" because it does not contradict or negate any of the original theory's statements or results, maintaining its compatibility with that original system.
The notion of conservative extension is often employed in formal logic, mathematics, and computer science to build upon existing theories or logical frameworks without discarding any established knowledge or results.
